Madagascar and Morocco will meet in the CHAN 2024 final on Saturday at 15:00 GMT, with the highly anticipated fixture set to take place at the Safaricom Stadium Kasarani in Nairobi, Kenya.
Morocco’s head coach Tariq Saktioui addressed the media on Friday, speaking cautiously ahead of his side’s attempt to secure the continental title. Saktioui’s remarks reflected a mix of confidence and vigilance, with the coach emphasising the unpredictable nature of finals football.
“We are suspicious of everything and nothing,” Saktioui said, underlining his respect for Madagascar’s journey to the final. He noted that his side cannot afford to underestimate their opponents, who have impressed throughout the competition with disciplined defending and clinical finishing.
Morocco, seeking to reaffirm their dominance in African football, have reached the final after a series of convincing performances. The Atlas Lions progressed through the group stage with authority, before overcoming stiff opposition in the knockout rounds.
Their defensive solidity and attacking depth have been standout features, as Saktioui’s tactical approach has blended structure with creativity.
Madagascar, however, have been one of the tournament’s surprise packages. Entering the competition as underdogs, they stunned several higher-ranked sides to secure a place in the final, earning plaudits for their resilience and organisation. Their remarkable run has made them a team Morocco will approach with caution.
Speaking further at the press conference, Saktioui highlighted the significance of mental preparation ahead of Saturday’s decisive fixture.
“In a final, details make the difference,” he said. “We have worked hard to reach this point, but the job is not finished. We will give everything to lift the trophy, while respecting the quality of our opponents.”
The CHAN 2024 final marks another milestone for the tournament, which showcases the best home-based talent from across the African continent.
Morocco’s squad, composed of domestic league stars, has shown exceptional cohesion, while Madagascar’s success has been celebrated as a testament to the depth of African football.
Fans at the Safaricom Stadium Kasarani are expected to witness a fiercely contested encounter, with Morocco seeking to confirm their status as continental heavyweights and Madagascar hoping to complete their fairy-tale run with a historic triumph.
Both teams have demonstrated impressive tactical discipline, and with the stakes higher than ever, the match promises a blend of intensity, drama, and skill.
Saturday’s final will not only decide the champion of CHAN 2024 but will also reflect the growing quality and competitiveness of African football at domestic level.
